Congratulations on completing the first week of school! I am energized and inspired by the enthusiasm I've seen at both Renberg and Harvey Dunn. You've worked hard to begin establishing a culture of achievement in your classrooms. I am thrilled to be witness to the learning communities developing in your schools. And thank you for not only welcoming your kiddoes through the doors, but for welcoming your new colleagues (myself included) into your teams.

At Harvey Dunn, the motto for the year is "You Matter." We are working on noticing the amazing things going on around us. Below are some things that I noticed as I traveled between schools, visited with teachers, and participated in classrooms:

I noticed...

...teachers going above and beyond to find time to DRA their students. How amazing to have such dedicated members of the team who don't want to waste a moment of potential learning time.

...students begging for math and writing time to begin. They cheered when told to take out their writing notebooks.

...students excited to listen to and learn about each other during the many culture building activities planned throughout their week.

...students demonstrating how to push in chairs, walk in line, pass supplies, move around the room, and so much more!

...teachers organizing together to help each other when last minute changes were thrown there way.

...teachers enthusiastically sharing beginning of the year plans, collaborating, and problem solving in order to do what is best for their students.

Go forward this week knowing that you matter. Your students need you. I look forward to seeing the great things being done this week. Thank you for your hard work!

Every Kid Needs a Champion - Check out this video for a little bit of inspiration as you continue to build that culture in your classroom.

Two-By-Ten Strategy - Take a look at this resource for an inspiring and easy early intervention with those kiddoes in your class who may already be experiencing challenges in your class. This strategy speaks exactly to how much you do matter to the students in your care. It's amazing what two minutes a day, ten days in a row can do!